Look on the Bright Side

Large-scale layoffs. Record unemployment rates. Drops in the Dow Jones average. The headlines can consume even the most confident of job seekers. But before you consider failing finals just to stay in school another semester, consider these six reasons to stay positive while graduating into a recession.

You’re Not Alone
The idea that most students have jobs by the time they graduate is a myth. This year, only about 19 percent of seniors who applied for a full-time job have obtained one, according to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers. By comparison, 25 percent of seniors who applied for a job had secured one at the same time in 2008. Realize it’s not unusual to be unemployed upon graduation. Take comfort in your numbers and keep your head high.

Become an Expert Networker
No doubt, in a growing economy, it’s easier for students to get a job offer. “That’s great, but these students miss out on the skills attached to a full job search, especially when it comes to professional networking,” says Lonnie Dunlap, director of Northwestern University’s career center. Job hunting during a recession forces you to expand your network. Attendance to networking events rises. Plus, those fortunate enough to be employed tend to go out of their way to help the unemployed. Identifying and solidifying career contacts early in your career will pay dividends in years to come.

Youth Is On Your Side
There are two reasons why experiencing a recession early in life is better than further down the road. First, it’s generally easier to survive a recession when you’re young and likely haven’t incurred the financial burdens that come with a family and/or mortgage. Second, entry-level positions are a hot spot for hiring. Although the competition may be older and more experienced, companies often favor the attitudes of younger workers. “Students have energy, enthusiasm, and new perspectives,” says Nancy Bernard, director of Auburn University’s career center. Plus, they often don’t demand the salary requirements that more experienced workers do.

Plan B, C, and D
If you can’t land your ideal job right out of school, it can be liberating to chart a new course that veers from the traditional 9-to-5’er. There’s no better time to volunteer for a new cause, take on a part-time gig, or accept one more internship—these positions can enhance your resume during a prolonged job search. They might even shed light on career outlets you had never considered.

Fan Out
By doing some research and exploring alternative industries and locations, you’ll ratchet up the odds of finding a job. “Some students are so self-directed during graduation—like advertising or consulting majors—that they have blinders on and don’t look around,” says Dunlap. “It’s healthy for students in any market to review all of their opportunities and do a check-in with what will meet their career satisfaction.” Consider a boutique firm rather than a large corporation, a government job rather than corporate finance, or Cincinnati rather than New York. If you’re flexible, you might actually end up in an industry or region that ultimately better suits you.

Reality Check
The bumps in life tend to teach you lessons about yourself and what you’re capable of. “There’s a term we use in career services called self efficacy—it means an ‘I can do it’ attitude,” says Dunlap. “When you do your own job search and experience small positive outcomes like making a network connection or landing an interview, it really builds your confidence. Not to mention, this persistence underlies more successful people.” Battling uphill now will make your next job search seem like a joyride.